NOW Calcium & Magnesium
Brand: NOW · Form: TABLET [E0155]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a foundational mineral for bone health, but the specific product "NOW Calcium & Magnesium" must be evaluated carefully. Our assessment: calcium supplementation can be beneficial, but it is not without risks, and you need to consider your overall dietary intake and health status before starting [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your skeleton. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, which is critical for preventing fractures as you age [NIH ODS]. Additionally, calcium plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly after contraction [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Safety data for calcium supplements is mixed. Some research suggests that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Very high levels of calcium in the blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. The FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements, though data specific to this product is not available [FDA data].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level without medical supervision. You should also be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Take this supplement at a different time than these medications. If you have a history of kidney stones, heart disease, or prostate cancer, consult your doctor before use [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 250.0 Tablet(s) |
| Market Status | Off Market |
How to Read This Label
Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:
- Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
- Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
- % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
- Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
- Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.
Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide